Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hints Roy Keane's criticism of players is justified after Man City derby defeat

Man Utd via Getty Images

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer refused to disagree with Roy Keane after the Irishman launched a scathing attack on Manchester United’s players.

Solskjaer is planning to overhaul the squad he inherited from Jose Mourinho in the summer, with as many as five new additions.

But for now he is relying on them to secure a top four finish and Champions League football next season.

Keane didn’t hold back in his criticism of United’s current class – insisting there were too many ‘bluffers’ in the Old Trafford dressing room.

“These are the same players that threw Mourinho under the bus, and they will do exactly the same to Ole,” Keane told on Sky Sports. “Leopards don’t change their spots. There’s too many bluffers at this club to get United back to the very top.

“Even the point where we’re talking about Man United trying to finish fourth tells you how the standards have dropped at United over the last few years – both on and off the pitch.

“So it’s a big test for Ole, of course.”

In Pictures | Man Utd vs Man City, Manchester derby | 24/04/2019

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United’s 2-0 defeat to Manchester City was a reminder of the gulf in class between the fierce rivals, which Solskjaer admits is too big.

And when told of Keane’s comments, his response spoke volumes.

“With Roy I’ve always had a great relationship with him and I value his opinion very highly,” he said. “He’s got his opinion. We played together for many years, he’s a Man United guy, he hurts just as much as anyone else connected.

“We’re so far behind City as we are. That’s my job that when we come back in pre-season that I have the right characters in and around the club because that should never be allowed.

“When you’re at Man United the highlight will be on you and you’ve got to make sure you come into work every single day with the effort like today, that’s your duty.”

United are still three points adrift of fourth place, with Sunday’s clash with Chelsea potentially pivotal to their Champions League hopes.

Solskjaer claims he hasn’t considered the prospect of playing in the Europa League season.

Man Utd via Getty Images

Instead his focus is on closing the gap to City at the summit of English football.

“They’ve set the standard and been best team in country and that’s the challenge,” he added. “We’re not there now and that’s there for everyone to see. But that’s what I’m in the job for - to improve and get closer to them.

“When I came in as a caretaker they never knew if I was going to stay. Now it’s more planning – we need to think long term.”

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